Smythson
A WHIFF OF HIGH FASHION pervades Smythson these days. To reach the paper goods in its flagship store, one is obliged to make one’s way through assorted accessories: pochettes, handbags, jewellery cases and the like. A minor quibble, but it strikes me that individuality has been slightly diluted in the embrace of international über-luxury. No matter. Smythson continues to lead the field in the production of personalised stationery and writing equipment of the highest quality, and particularly leather-bound notebooks and diaries that aren’t just the best in Britain, but the best in the world. Introduced by Frank Smythson in 1908, the celebrated ‘Panama’ pocket diaries derive their name from their pliable bindings that enable them to be rolled or folded just like the hat. Inside, the pages are of specially milled ‘Featherweight’ paper in Smythson’s signature blue which, while exceptionally thin, can still hold the ink from one’s fountain pen. All in all, they’re nifty, stylish and extremely practical. I’m sorely put out if I don’t find one under the tree each Christmas.
Besides diaries and notebooks in every conceivable hue and for every conceivable purpose, Smythson retails witty correspondence cards and elegant invitations on which one can fill out the relevant details by hand. The monogramming of leather goods is a house speciality.
See also: Mount Street Printers, Pickett
